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[[File:EREFlag.png|thumb|500px|The flag of the Eternal Republic, giving homage to the Eternal. ]]

= Eternal Republic of the Ekane =

A theocratic autocracy, the Eternal Republic of the Ekane was founded after first contact with the [[Skrell]] in 2390 CE – in which by then the Eternal spread rife throughout the community. Roughly a decade following its introduction to Hieroaetheria, the Eternal had managed to conglomerate primarily within the cities dotting the Ekane region of the planet – which eventually saw unification beneath the banner of the Eternal Republic of the Ekane. For the last century, the Eternal Republic has steadily become an influential faction within Hieroaetheria, affording them a place within the limelight. However, their presence has not been without problems. Staunchly against any propositions for reform, or centralisation, they are largely considered a reactionary political faction within the Commonwealth – resulting in a feeling of scorn from the other factions that exist on Hieroaetheria. 

== General ==

'''Capital:''' Fego

'''Demonym:''' Ekanan, Eternalite 

'''Official Languages:''' Rootsong 

== History ==

The history of the Eternal Republic of the Ekane began with the Abandonment of 221 CE, when a significant portion of the Dionae within Mede, and more notably Epigenia, migrated due to doctrinal differences. Immediately following this was The Long March: Every Dionae that had left joined together, and moved as a unified body to a new place for colonization. Three years later, the picturesque landscape of the Ekane were eventually discovered. Unfortunately, this led to the collective mass of the Gestalt to bicker and debate with itself over how the area should be settled, resulting again in a fracturing of the Dionae into different clusters, each with their own survival strategy and concept of unity. For a period, they were largely never truly reunited again – despite attempts by the Dominion. It wasn’t until the touchdown of the Eternal that unity was once again a possibility. 

Since then, the region of Ekane had remained a backwater of competing clusters, each warring over a different conception of unity, while occasionally trading with the outside. Even post-unity, a Gestalt’s cluster is a major part of their identity and is culturally important. The Consortium never sought to expand into this region, firstly because the myriad of competing tribes were deemed ungovernable, and later on, the lack of resources to work during The Triumph of Smoke and Steel.

In 2400 CE the Ekane had been, by this point dominated, by the Dominion. Despite a handful of smaller nation-states, the entirety of the region was still several decades behind in development. It was here that the Eternal had been introduced, touching the minds of those present within the Ekane, promising them unity and salvation. To become whole with a body far greater and far beyond the planet. The Eternal exploded across the Ekane in fervent rapture, and a mere five years later, they were a unified and rapidly modernizing force on the continent. Missionaries spilt out from its borders, preaching news and the mandate of something greater. The Eternal Republic of the Ekane entered into the Commonwealth in 2445 CE as an equal, though some interpreted this as the Consortium's means of securing negotiations with the Eternal Republic before something drastic were to happen.

== Culture and Society ==

=== The Eternal ===

[[The Eternal]] is not merely a facet of life within the Eternal Republic of the Ekane; it is the very foundation upon which the entire theocratic society is built. The relationship between the Eternal and the Eternal Republic is so deeply intertwined that the two are inseparable, with the state governance, cultural practices, and daily life of the Dionae within its borders all revolving around the principles and teachings of the Eternal. The Ecclesiarchs’ leadership is not only political but profoundly spiritual, claiming they derive divine guidance from the Eternal – where majority of the decisions undertaken by the Ecclesiarchs are said to be framed within the context of the religious doctrine of the Eternal. Additionally, the Eternal is the only religion allowed within the Eternal Republic; with Orthodox being the most followed school of thought, followed by Ichor then lastly Iron Eternal. Cultural expressions, including art, music and literature are deeply infused with the Eternal. Celebrations, rituals and festivals all reflect the spiritual identity of Dionae within the Eternal Republic – oftentimes mostly shown during “Rootsong Performances” which are communal gatherings of Dionae that engage in harmonic expressions with one another to show their devotion to the Eternal and the Ecclesiarchs. The devotion to the Eternal is not merely traditions carried through the generations of Dionae; they are lived expressions of the species' profound connection to the Eternal. Each facet of the Eternal serves as a thread in the intricate tapestry of an Eternalite’s cultural identity, weaving together to form a deeply religious society.

=== Naming Scheme ===

In the Eternal Republic of the Ekane, naming conventions are deeply intertwined with religious connotations, reflecting the spiritual and experiential nature of their existence. Each Dionae's name is a reflection of their connection to the divine, encapsulating experiences, emotions, actions, or ideals that hold religious significance. This unique approach to naming serves not only as a personal identifier but also as a testament to the Dionae’s journey within the theocratic society. The naming process carries profound religious symbolism, as each chosen word contributes to a Dionae's spiritual narrative. The names often echo themes of redemption, sacrament, grace, and other concepts central to the theocratic ideology of the Eternal Republic. In the Eternal Republic, a Dionae's name is not merely a name; it is a living testament to their spiritual experiences, a sacred tapestry woven with threads of devotion and divine connection.

=== Language ===

The Eternal Republic of the Ekane does not recognise any other language besides Rootsong within its borders. It serves as a conduit for divine connection to the Eternal, as claimed by the Ecclesiarchs, which only further perpetuates the theocratic ideology held within the Eternal Republic. The written form of Rootsong often adorns religious texts, architectural elements, and sacred artefacts. Inscriptions of these glyphs carry divine significance, connecting the written word with the spiritual essence of the Eternal. Non-Dionae who pass through the Eternal Republic often must utilize translators, either Dionae capable of speaking their language or a machine able to translate the language. This further divides Dionae from non-Dionae within the Eternal Republic – a mechanism in which it serves as a “divine barrier” that emphasizes the notion that Dionae are a spiritually elevated race. This has resulted in the stagnation of diplomatic agreements with other factions in the Orion Spur, besides the [[Nralakk Federation]], the [[Xrim|Covenant of Xrim]] and obviously the other nations present on [[Hieroaetheria]]. 

=== Education ===

Taking inspiration from the Eternal Temple, and the Covenant of Xrim, the Eternal Republic of the Ekane has designated “Growing Chambers” within all their settlements. Dozens of Dionae are typically assigned to a Growing Chamber; tasked with ensuring the principles and ethos of the Eternal Republic are passed onto the next generation of Nymphs that will bear fruit for the Ecclesiarchs. They will be sorted into industries appropriate to their place of birth, however, depending on the desires of the Ecclesiarchs, they may be redistributed to other settlements that do not fulfil quotas due to a lack of population – such as Distant Hope. Most Dionae from the Eternal Republic will find themselves forming into Gestalts whilst still in the Growing Chamber – there are rare circumstances where Nymphs may not form a Gestalt, thereby resulting in them having an extended stay within the Growing Chamber; eventually joining one of the Grower’s in their Gestalt. 

=== Persecution of Non-Dionae ===

Within the autocratic theocracy of the Eternal Republic, non-Dionae face systematic persecution, driven by the uncompromising adherence to the state religion and the belief in the inherent superiority of Dionae. The persecution is deeply rooted in religious dogma and theocratic ideology, leading to significant challenges and hardships for those who do not share the same divine connection. The legal system within the Eternal Republic is inherently harsh against those who commit religious offences, undoubtedly more for non-Dionae, who will often face unfair treatment in their Courts, and even harsher penalties compared to Dionae. Though there is no significant population of non-Dionae within the Eternal Republic, those that pass through its borders are watched closely by the Knights of the Eternal. Non-Dionae cultures and traditions are often suppressed or marginalized, further alienating these individuals from mainstream society. This cultural suppression aims to homogenize the population under the theocratic umbrella of the Ecclesiarchs’ divine pathway. The persecution of non-Dionae individuals in the Eternal Republic is a deeply ingrained aspect of the theocratic governance, perpetuating a hierarchical societal structure that places those without a divine connection at a significant disadvantage. This systemic discrimination shapes every aspect of their lives, from social interactions to access to opportunities, which culminates into an environment of division and inequality.

=== Emigration ===

Leaving the Eternal Republic of the Ekane is a challenging endeavour due to the stringent control exercised by the Ecclesiarchs, the ruling religious authorities. The theocratic regime places significant restrictions on emigration to maintain ideological purity and prevent the spread of dissent beyond its borders. However, determined Dionae may employ various methods to escape the confines of the autocratic theocracy. Dionae may opt for remote and less patrolled routes, navigating through the wilderness areas of Hieroaetheria to avoid established checkpoints and surveillance. This method demands resilience and survival skills to traverse challenging terrains. Leveraging the pretext of religious pilgrimages, Dionae may gain permission to leave temporarily. Once outside the borders, they can seek refuge in neighbouring factions, utilizing the guise of spiritual journeys to avoid suspicion. The only official way to leave is to request such from the Ecclesiarchs; which grant such requests infrequently, but not rarely. One must prove they will uphold the principles of the Eternal Republic, and maintain loyalty to the Ecclesiarchs or face the Knights of the Eternal. Despite these methods, leaving the Eternal Republic remains perilous, as the Ecclesiarchs are vigilant in monitoring and suppressing any attempts at defection. The consequences of being caught attempting to leave can range from severe punishments to public executions, reinforcing the Ecclesiarchs' determination to maintain control over the populace and uphold the theocratic order.

=== Days of Importance ===

'''Remembrance of the Titan (July 18th - July 25th)''' 

July 18th to July 25th is considered a period of holiness, in which the Eternal Republic of the Ekane engages in mourning. Celebrations are halted, and any religious sermons are held in sorrowful melodies. The economy comes to a halt, and mourning the loss of the Rueltab Titan is mandated by the Ecclesiarchs; those who seek to go against the state-mandated mourning can find themselves charged with religious crimes by the Knights of the Eternal. 

'''Nigh Eternal Night (August 27th)'''

For three days a year, the Dancing Stars and Sparring Giants align to occlude the Opulence neutron star from Hieroaetheria’ view. This is a time of vulnerability for Dionae, though also a reprieve for non-Dionae inhabitants; ambient radiation levels drop significantly and temperatures on the planet cool slightly. Preparation for the day comes weeks in advance to ensure that Dionae do not fall prey to the decreased radiation and luminosity during these few days.

== Crime ==
[[File:KnightsoftheEternalLOGO.png|250px|thumb|The insignia of the Knights of the Eternal. ]]
The Eternal Republic of the Ekane persecutes those who go against their religious authority to the fullest extent they can; being one of the more heinous governments within the Orion Spur to enact such. Utilizing the Knights of the Eternal, Dionae who act as a policing force within the Eternal Republic and carries out the decreed punishments made by the Ecclesiarchs. Many have decried these punishments as not fitting the crime, being needlessly overzealous, but nevertheless, the Knights of the Eternal carry out their duties passionately. In times of crises, the Knights have also been known to act as an impromptu emergency management body – garnering themselves good publicity, despite their administration of punishment. The majority of the accepted methods of rehabilitation aim at severing, where possible, the Nymph responsible for instigating the criminal offence, and throwing them in cells barren of any possibility of survival, if one is considered lucky. Some of the more severe crimes can result in the death of the entirety of the Gestalt. Non-Dionae often receive the worst punishments, befitting the backwards ideology of the Ecclesiarchs who believe in Dionae superiority stemming from the Eternal. Those caught committing crimes are tried before a Court but with the lack of secularism, religious teachings and perspectives are applied as per the doctrine of the Ecclesiarchs.

== Economy ==

Lacking any sulfur and tar within the region to exploit, the Eternal Republic has instead sought to invest their holdings in mineral resource extraction and refining; as well as agriculture. This has resulted in a rather basic way of life within its society, without any consistent method of importing or even producing luxuries available in the Union or the Consortium. There exist no branches of megacorporations, nor are there any native corporations present, instead the entirety of the resources available for distribution (whether it be exporting or disseminating them to the Eternal Republic’s population) are controlled by the Ecclesiarchs and those appointed by them to maintain the nation’s economy. It is largely rural, compared to its other counterparts present on the planet. The Eternal Republic utilises the Hieroaetherian Vine as its main currency and only the Hieroaetherian Vine. Though there have been attempts to introduce the Sqiip and the Biesel Standard Credit, the Ecclesiarchs have denied and nipped proposals in the bud before they gain any traction within its borders, despite it being significantly weaker than most of the currencies present within the Orion Spur. 

== Government and Ideology ==

The Eternal Republic of the Ekane operates as an autocratic theocracy, through which they ensure their ideology is followed or else those that elect not to shall see themselves punished by the Knights of the Eternal. It currently has only four ministries, each held by a Dionae chosen by the Ecclesiarchs. Dionae within the Eternal Republic do not vote on who leads the nation, at least not as of yet. The same three Dionae have remained Ecclesiarchs since the founding of the Eternal Republic, in which they have devised a careful method for themselves to be replaced when the time comes. When an Ecclesiarch either perishes, or is no longer able to perform their duties, the remaining Ecclesiarchs must select a Dionae which not only has not incurred the wrath of the Knights of the Eternal, but has distinguished themselves as being loyal to the Eternal Republic and the Ecclesiarchs, and seeks to uphold its principles. 

=== Ecclesiarchs ===

*'''Ecclesiarch Sanctified Seeker of Holy Communion''' is a rather old Dionae, having been grown two centuries before the founding of the Eternal Republic of the Ekane, in 2143 CE. They were critical in the founding of the religious authority that governs the Eternal Republic – as well as the Knights of the Eternal. They are an Argus-form Gestalt and sport a rather dark, brown appearance with a slight golden hue – on their younger Nymphs, incorporated throughout the years to assist in maintaining mobility, as well as to reinvigorate the Gestalt. Though Dionae from the Eternal Republic of the Ekane would not dare insult Ecclesiarch Sanctified Seeker of Holy Communion, they are known to be deceptive and manipulative to get their way, exploiting the concept of their relationship with the Eternal for personal gain, and to sow discord across the Eternal Republic to maintain their religious authority. They do not keep their disdain for non-Dionae a secret either, having interacted with both Skrell and Humans present on Hieroaetheria, who often report back the palpable hatred the Ecclesiarch displays. It is suspected the Ecclesiarch has a Tyrannical Tune Mind. 

*'''Ecclesiarch Devoted Emissary of Divine Benediction''' sports a rather youthful appearance, having only been grown a few years prior to the founding of the Eternal Republic in 2350 CE. Chosen by Ecclesiarch Sanctified Seeker of Holy Communion, Devoted Emissary of Divine Benediction has become instrumental in the development of the Eternal Republic’s industry. They do not waste breath on conservation, nor on restriction – merely complete and utter industrialism, in a controlled manner of course, so as to not cause an imbalance of power between the people and the Ecclesiarchs. Sharing Ecclesiarch Sanctified Seeker of Holy Communion, Devoted Emissary of Divine Benediction holds no light to non-Dionae, and rarely if ever interacts with them – going out of their way to ensure the other Ecclesiarchs instead take the reigns on non-Dionae affairs. They are said to hold a Seasoned Song mindtype, despite only being a little of a century old, with the social Nymph being entirely encased in immobilising growths. They are a Cyclops-form Dionae. 

*'''Ecclesiarch Hallowed Pilgrim of Redemption's Light''' is enigmatic, with little known about the Ecclesiarch despite their role within the Eternal Republic. Some believe they were to have been grown around the same time as Ecclesiarch Sanctified Seeker of Holy Communion, but others indicate the lack of immobilising growths as indicating the Gestalt to perhaps be younger than Ecclesiarch Devoted Emissary of Divine Benediction. Regardless, they have been Ecclesiarch since the founding of the Eternal Republic, and typically handle the external affairs of the nation – engaging with the Consortium and the Union, as well as anything that may involve non-Dionae. They only leave the Eternal Beacon Cathedral when required, otherwise choosing to engross themselves in their worship of the Eternal, or studying its teachings. Their mindtype is not known, despite attempts to uncover it by non-Dionae reporters, who are quickly shut down by the Ecclesiarch’s Knights of the Eternal that maintain an almost consistent guard over the religious authority. They are an Argus-form Dionae. 

=== Ministries ===

==== Ministry of Divine Doctrine (MDD) ====

The Ministry of Divine Doctrine serves as the custodian of the Eternal Republic’s religious ideology, ensuring its propagation, adherence and suppression of dissent, in co-operation with the Ministry of Religious Order. It plays a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual and moral fabric of the Eternal Republic and is overseen by '''Sacred Luminary of Celestial Devotion'''. It is responsible for the formulation and dissemination of the official religious doctrine of the Eternal Republic, as well as emphasizing the teaching that aligns with the autocratic theocracy – in addition, it oversees the education of Dionae, in which it seeks to instil loyalty to the Eternal and the Ecclesiarchs from the moment they are disgorged from a Nymph Pod. They are also the main culprit behind heretical suppression within the Eternal Republic, providing any information received they deem necessary to the Ministry of Religious Order to ensure the Ecclesiarchs’ rule is not threatened. 

==== Ministry of Religious Order (MRA) ====

The Ministry of Religious Affairs is overseen by '''Devoted Inquisitor of Eternal Absolution''' and is tasked with maintaining internal security, upholding the will of the Eternal Republic, and suppressing dissent through the disciplined and often brutal actions of the Knights of the Eternal. It works closely with the Ministry of Divine Doctrine to identify cases of heresy and dissent, in which the information received is then acted upon to deliver enforcement actions against those who have been deemed as not following the religious authority of the Ecclesiarch, or those not worshipping the Eternal. The Ministry of Religious Order is essentially the Ecclesiarchs’ secret police, acting out their orders to maintain their dominance over Dionae within the Eternal Republic of the Ekane. Many of the methods they use are considered to be inhumanely harsh, especially their interrogation tactics to uncover additional heretic plots or growing dissident movements. 

==== Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) ====

The Ministry of Trade and Industry is the economic heartbeat of the Eternal Republic, dedicated to fostering prosperity while upholding the theocratic principles of the state. It is responsible for ensuring trade relations between the other factions on Hieroaetheria, and the other interstellar factions – however, only electing to engage in agreements that align with the Eternal Republic’s theocratic ideology, which is far and between. In addition, they are tasked with overseeing the extraction and utilization of resources to ensure self-sufficiency without compromising the Eternal Republic’s principles, through the encouragement of the growth of industries, economic self-reliance and ensuring technological advancement that align with the theocratic values which the state upholds. It works closely with the Ministry of Interstellar Diplomacy and is overseen by '''Devout Steward of Radiant Grace'''. The Ecclesiarchs’ views on non-Dionae have somewhat impacted the scope of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, only really allowing it to engage in intra-planetary agreements, besides its long-lasting relationship with the Covenant of Xrim. 

==== Ministry of Interstellar Diplomacy (MID) ====

The Ministry of Interstellar Diplomacy is entrusted with the delicate task of managing the Eternal Republic's relations with other entities in the Orion Spur, ensuring the propagation of theocratic ideals beyond its borders. It predominately acts as the main representative of the Eternal Republic of the Ekane within the Commonwealth – advocating for it to take an apolitical stance and to instead focus inwards – except where the affairs concern Dionae, of course. Besides its lobbying within the Commonwealth, the Ministry of Interstellar Diplomacy also has a close relationship with the Triumvirate of the Covenant of Xrim, frequently extending invitations for the Triumvirate to visit the Eternal Republic of the Ekane. It works closely with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, scheduling appointments with the entities it has chosen to align with to better uplift the Eternal Republic in accordance with the desires of the Ecclesiarchs. It is overseen by '''Reverent Arbiter of Sanctified Faith'''.

== Major Cities ==

=== Fego ===

Arguably the most industrialized city, owing thanks to its status as the Capital of the Eternal Republic of the Ekane, it is nestled within the south of the region between mountains that scrape the clouds above – host to precious metals that kickstarted the Eternal Republic’s industrialisation. Fego is centred around the Eternal Beacon Cathedral, which not only is used for religious sermons and national announcements but also houses the Ecclesiarchs that oversee the Eternal Republic. It is largely reminiscent of Babylonian-era Architecture, all structured to resemble the Eternal Beacon Cathedral. The streets of Fego are largely unoccupied by private vehicles, with most Dionae rarely leaving the confines of their inhabited areas, resulting in a decreased need for means of transportation. However, the logistics industry is present within Fego, with plans to develop a railway network between the Eternal Republic’s cities to make transportation of resources and workers more efficient. 

=== Garden of Endless Wilds ===

Named after its abundant fertility, the Garden of Endless Wilds is largely focused on agricultural production – not necessarily producing items worth consuming, but instead, those that can be used to amplify industries or be used as construction materials for the Eternal Republic. It is largely rural, with rarely any established industry besides that of farms and ranches; resulting in a rather archaic society that closely resembles bygone times for other sophont species within the Orion Spur. Only recently was electrification introduced to Garden of Endless Wilds – previously not necessary thanks to bio-organic machinery utilized by the Dionae inhabitants. It is unheard of for Dionae grown within the Garden of Endless Wilds to have experience in anything but agricultural skills, but there is a growing number that are beginning to advocate for the city to industrialise, much to the chagrin of the Ecclesiarchs. It is also situated in close proximity to the only lake present on Hieroaetheria, in which a budding aquaponic industry has begun to take root. 

=== Distant Hope ===

Along the western impasse between the ranges that split the desert and temperate biomes of the Ekane, Distant Hope has invested all its industry into resource extraction and refining – built into the cliffs of the mountains it finds itself nestled within. It is considered the most sparsely inhabited city within the Eternal Republic, mostly owing to the sandstorms that blow from the north through into Distant Hope – unlike its sister city, Echoing Spires, which is protected by the mountains it finds its infrastructure surrounding. However, the Ecclesiarchs have announced plans to reinvigorate Distant Hope, primarily by ushering any Nymphs grown in Garden of Endless Wilds; which likely comes as a “punishment” for those seeking to industrialize the city. 

=== Echoing Spires ===

Towards the eastern impasse between the mountains that divide the desert and temperate biomes of the Ekane, Echoing Spires has become a tourist attraction to many – despite the Eternal Republic’s stance on non-Dionae. Utilizing the abundant wind that sweeps across the Ekane, dozens of sound stones have been carved into the crevices of the mountains surrounding Echoing Spires – so much so that at any given time there is an orchestra of noises reverberating across the city. Due to the thriving tourism industry, and the presence of precious minerals close by, it is far better off than other cities within the Eternal Republic, and can even be compared to Fego. 

=== Retheus Oasis ===

Nestled along the Retheus River Basin, Retheus Oasis is the Eternal Republic’s trading capital – mostly reserved for intra-planetary trade, but there is an extraplanetary post for its trading allies, mostly reserved only for the Covenant of Xrim. One of the last hold-outs across the Ekane before its integration into the Eternal Republic, Dionae within the conglomerate still are attempting to find themselves within their newly devoted lives. The constant intermingling with the other factions present on Hieroaetheria has led to a much more liberal perspective emerging within the conglomerate, a worry for the Ecclesiarchs – resulting in the majority of the Knights of the Eternal being stationed within Retheus Oasis. Dionae within Retheus Oasis can find themselves in almost any career path and fare better outside of the Eternal Republic than their other Eternalite counterparts – if allowed to, that is